Blue Gator Covers

These instructions show how to assemble the top, with its frame and straps, starting upside down and inverting to an upright position when attaching to your boat.

Step 1. Spread the Bimini Top canvas out on a flat, clean area with the bottom side up. Sewn-in label indicates the bottom, or inside, and the back of the top.

Step 2. identify the hook shaped, long, medium, and short bow side frame parts. Using the long bow side frame part, and one of the center bow frame parts, assemble the side bow and center bow parts aligning pre drilled holes. Use the 1/2”, no. 8 screws to connect the bow parts securely.

Step 3. repeat this procedure for the medium and short bows, aligning the pre-drilled holes and securing them with 1/2” , no. 8 screws. Caution: If screw heads become burred, cover heads with duct tape to avoid damage to canvas.

Step 4. With bows assembled, first pass medium bow assembly through sleeve in front of top. (This is the sleeve opposite the end with the sewn-in tag). Note the position of the jaw slides and the single pre- drilled holes on the bow frame. (Holes should be facing in.)

Step 5. Pass the 2 short bow assemblies through the 2 small sleeves in the center of the top and the long bow assembly through the sleeve at the back of the top. Again note the position of the jaw slides and the single pre-drilled holes on the long bow frame. (Holes should be facing in.)

Step 6. Pass the buckled end of the adjuster strap through opening in fabric and around long bow. Thread looped end through buckle. Pass the looped end of the strap over the end of the short bow and slide down into position directly across from opening in fabric where buckled end is attached. (See illustration.) Leave at maximum length. repeat this step for all 4 straps. See enlargement.

Step 7. Pass looped end of each hold-down strap over each end of the long and medium bows. Use a no. 8, 1/2” screw to fasten strap to bow frame at each pre-drilled hole position. Position strap over hole and insert screw, with finish washer through center of strap and into pre-drilled hole.

Step 8. Connect medium frame ends to jaw slides closest to end of long bow frame. Then connect short frame ends to the second set of jaw slides on the long bow. Connect other short frame to the jaw slides on the medium frame bow. Jaw slides should allow short bows to pivot, but be tight enough to hold securely.